(Each month, Gonzalo “Gonzo” San Miguel, the SCCA® RallyCross® Board (RXB) Chair, presents you with the latest RallyCross news and information.)
The world of SCCA RallyCross has long been defined by its rugged, adrenaline-filled competitions and the passionate community that fuels them. However, a new addition is set to transform the landscape of this thrilling motorsport: Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs). This innovative shift promises not only to broaden the appeal of RallyCross but also to bring a host of benefits to the Club and its members.
UTVs are versatile off-road vehicles designed to handle diverse terrain with ease. Traditionally used for utility and recreational purposes, these vehicles are now making their mark in the RallyCross arena. By incorporating UTVs into SCCA RallyCross events, the Club is opening up new opportunities for both participants and spectators.
One of the most significant advantages of introducing UTVs is their availability
UTVs are accessible to a broad audience since there are so many that have already been purchased for hunting and other of- road activities. This inclusivity lowers the barrier to entry for newcomers who may have been intimidated by the issue of using a daily driver that could possibly be damaged.
The introduction of UTVs in SCCA RallyCross is poised to attract a fresh wave of motorsport enthusiasts
With their user-friendly handling and lower operational costs, UTVs are ideal for those who are new to off-road racing or looking for a less intimidating entry point. This influx of new members not only boosts the Club’s membership numbers but also revitalizes the competitive spirit within the community.
Adding UTVs to the RallyCross roster diversifies the competitive landscape
UTVs bring a different set of skills and strategies to the sport, creating new challenges for seasoned drivers and exciting new dynamics for spectators. This diversification enriches the overall RallyCross experience, making events more engaging and unpredictable.
UTVs have a unique flair that captivates audiences
The compact, agile nature of UTVs allows them to maneuver through tight corners and rough terrain with impressive agility, offering a visually dynamic spectacle. It’s fun to watch what a well setup UTV can do in the capable hands of a great driver.
The UTV category fosters a sense of community within the Club
As more members join to participate in events, the Club’s social fabric strengthens. New enthusiasts bring fresh perspectives and ideas, contributing to a vibrant and evolving community. Additionally, the shared excitement of UTVs helps build camaraderie among participants, both old and new.
The growing popularity of UTVs can attract new sponsorships and partnerships for the Club
As UTVs gain traction, companies interested in reaching the off-road and motorsport communities may be more inclined to support a Region. This increased sponsorship potential provides additional resources for event organization and Club development.
2024 is the first year that UTVs are allowed to enter National SCCA RallyCross events, which only helps the participation and excitement of the events. Now that the rules have been updated, there are two classes that are separated by displacement for naturally aspirated UTVs (under 1.1L vs. over) and forced induction. As these are newer classes, we are learning in real time what, if any, changes will need to be incorporated into the ruleset in the future.
The integration of UTVs into SCCA RallyCross represents a transformative step forward for the sport. By making RallyCross more accessible and appealing to a broader audience, the Club is setting the stage for a new era of growth and excitement. The benefits of this change are multifold: increased participation, diversified competition, and a stronger sense of community.
As our Club embraces this new chapter, it will undoubtedly continue to thrive, driven by the enthusiasm of its expanding membership and the dynamic addition of UTVs. The future of SCCA RallyCross is brighter than ever, and UTVs are at the forefront of this exhilarating evolution.
Region & Member Highlight
Each month, I will highlight a Region and a RallyCrosser from that Region. Through this, everyone will get to know their nearby Regions and fellow members better. And based on the stats, you’ll also discover that many Regions thrive thanks to handfuls of passionate members.
Utah Region
Division – Rocky Mountain
State – Utah
City – Salt Lake City
Your RallyCross Director – Danial Ebling
Number of Safety Stewards – 4
Number of core people in your Region (regulars that show up) – 9
How many events in a typical year – 12
Best local venue – Desert Thunder Raceway
Average number of entrants – 17
Most popular class – MA
Any National Champions from your Region? Brad Turnbull, Austin Dowda, and Gonzalo San Miguel
Have you hosted a RallyCross National Tour or Championship? Four Tours
Member: Caleb Warren
Car/Class – 2002 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V/tock Front
Mods to car – Cat-back exhaust
Years racing – 3
Other interests – Design, motorcycles, camping, SXS off-roading, dirt biking
Photo courtesy Polaris
